A Message From Hon. Marilyn Ware, Ambassador (Retired)

Congratulations to American Water on 125 years of innovation and excellence, which are recognized around the world. As a former Chairman of the Board, who stepped into same leadership roles that my father and grandfather held, I am proud to see the company that has been such an integral part of my life reach this momentous milestone.
Early on in his business career my grandfather, John H. Ware, Jr., bought some small water and electric companies. These acquisitions were a harbinger of things to come. Since the day he entered the big time, acquiring the company in 1947, American Water has influenced two subsequent generations of our family, molding them just as that milestone has influenced the nation’s water and utility investor sectors.

I remember fondly my grandfather’s intellect, ingenuity and foresight – all traits which benefitted the company, and which confirmed that the American dream is a reality. As an 8th grade dropout who was the sole supporter of his family at the age of 15, John Ware’s dreams did come true. And as his own fortunes grew, so too did the success of the company enrich its employees and shareholders. During that process, we all came to appreciate that quality drinking water, provided at a reasonable price and that could attract investors, should not be taken for granted.

We are accustomed to accessing safe, clean and abundant water with a turn of the tap. Yet most of us have given little thought to the planning, investment and engineering that go into providing that vital service. Nor do enough of us grasp the extent of the challenges that lie ahead if we are to ensure that clean, accessible water will be readily available for future generations.

I know American Water is up to the challenge. My own years shepherding the company taught me that anything is possible with the right team in place. And I know that if John H. Ware, Jr. were here today, he would be as confident as I am that American Water will continue to lead the industry.